A major blow is coming for Nigerian students in America.
The United States Department of Homeland Security has proposed a staggering $70,000 fee for international students seeking to work in the US under the Optional Practical Training programme.
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Schools To Pay For Students
Under the controversial rule, American universities would be forced to pay the fee for every foreign student on OPT, the programme that allows students to work in their field of study during or after graduation.
The fee is $70,000 for the initial application and $30,000 for renewal, according to AP News. STEM graduates who get two extra years would pay even more.
It is the latest move by the Trump administration to tighten immigration and squeeze foreign students.
Nigerian Graduates, Tech Firms Hit Hard
The policy could devastate thousands of Nigerian students who rely on OPT to gain experience and repay loans.
US universities also depend heavily on international students, including Nigerians, for tuition revenue. Tech companies that recruit foreign graduates for specialized roles will also suffer.
For many, the American dream may now be priced out of reach.
